2004 Audi A3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 206 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1771 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
